Shout outs!

Thanks to all who made my Christmas break amazing.

So here are a few shout outs to the people that made my time special.

Robin Potter: So when I was living at home a needed to do some community service hours, because I have a led foot. Anyways my dad was able to get me some time at his work in another department. As time passed I started to fall in love with working there and the people, and making some friends. Now these are not your typical friends for a 20 year old, but they are still dear to my heart. And this shout out is to you Robbin Potter. We didn’t work much together but when we did it was a blast. Lots of talks and fun. And when I told you that I was going to be living in Peru for 27 months it seemed a little silly, but you had faith in me and my call. And I can’t thank you enough.

Chelsi: Bestie!!!! Ok so I know we have know each other for like ages (the 3^rd grade to be exact) but I still wouldn’t trade you for the world. Even though I was only able to see you once when I was home it was so good to see you and catch up. And we have definitely been thorough a lot of hard situations and good ones too. And I really wish that I was able to go to your wedding, but I love you lots and lots and lots.

Corin and James: I can’t thank you enough for dinner. That night was amazing and definitely UNFORGETTABLE! And Corin, you have been there through so many different things and you just tell it like it is. And I know things are difficult with things, but just know that you are loved tons, and I love hearing stories.

Kellie: Bestest!!!!!! Oh how I have missed you tons and tons and tons! And I love you lots and lots and lots! And I thank you Kellie Kidwell for being my friend! And I know I have been M.I.A. but just know that I think of you lots and there are thing here that I wish I was able to tell you, like just give you a call or text… but I can’t. But just so you know I would if I could. And I am glad that we got to spend lots of time together while I was home, it was what I needed.

Mom and Dad: You both are super amazing! And I love you tons! I see more of you both in me ever day, its crazy to think about but I do. I love you both so much and I am so glad that I am apart of your family. I know that we haven’t had the best relationship, but I am proud and happy to call you guys my best friends.

Brooke, Dusty & Kadee: You guys have made a huge impact in my life, and you continue to do so. There are tons and tons of great memories from youth group, but I can’t wait to make new ones. And Kadee, make sure she knows that I will be home soon, and not to miss me too much. And that before she knows it I will be home for good for good. Kellie, me and Kadee will all have a big sleep over together.

Joey: Ok 1. stop growing your making me look like a little fairy. 2. You sound like a man. 3. I miss you!!!!!!!!! 4. I love you!!!!!!! 5. I am so proud of who you are becoming!!!!

Marie: You are super generous and I am really proud of you and all that you are doing. It isn't always easy but I am glad we are family.

Simplicity

After a long a silly journey I am home...later then expected, thanks to me, but I am home. And I know I have said it many many times but I can’t tell you enough how thankful I am.

The funny thing is, or not so funny, that there were people there welcoming home the troops. So when ever a troop arrived there were people clapping and cheering and welcoming them home. So there were NO armed forces with the group of people I was with, but I had my own cheering section! Well I was really overly happy and excited that I accidentally knocked over some posters for the troops… sorry about that.

And not only was my family there to welcome me but my bestie was there!!!!!

I was so thankful that I didn’t have a phone while I was home… I know what your thinking a 20 year old shouldn’t be able to function an hour with out her phone… well its happening! And life is so much simpler with out t.v., a phone, or anything like that. So it was a little difficult but I like not having a phone, and its just one more thing that I don’t have to worry about. I was able to see the people I wanted to see and not worry about hurting any ones feelings, crafty huh.

While I was home I saw my two best friends in the whole entire world, ate amazing food and got to have some awesome family time.

The special treatment started when I got off the plane, how wonderful : )

Through out the week I was treated to food, coffee, shopping, good straightened, and driving. Its just the little things in life that make me happy, not the amount of money, friends or anything just the simple things.

Before I didn’t find too much joy in the little things, in fact I took them for granted…. But that is pretty normal right?

Now I take notice of the beauty of the country side, the green farms, the sun coming up to give its warmth but hides away to give us the coolness of the night, having a roof over our heads, a family to come home to, the moisture from the colds, thunderstorms, the warmth of a smile, a hug. The difference a smile can make. Its those little things that I find everyday now warms my heart. For me its now the simplicity of life that warms my heart not the complexity.

Home for the holidays

So being able to go home is one of the best things ever. For me it is not because I am sick of the team it is because I just need a break and I really really miss my family. Being here has really helped me grow myself (spiritually, mentally and in other ways as well) but it has shown me a greater appreciation for my family as well.

Ok for example my mom. We haven’t always had a good awesome relationship, and now I couldn’t live my life without her. She is my best friend and when I am not able to talk to her like every day it really does kill me, and I don’t know what to do with my self.

Dad, well you’re a man of a lot of words so I will give you a section with “a lot of words” I love you

Marie: well I could never ever forget you. I mean you just don’t let me.

Joey: your just a rascal.

In saying all of that I miss you all a ton, and I am soooo happy that I was able to be home with you all.